Abraham Lincoln Elementary School Awarded
Title 1 Academic Achievement Award!
Abraham Lincoln Elementary School in the Paramount Unified School District has been awarded the Title 1 Academic Achievement Award for the second consecutive year. Lincoln was one of only 117 schools in the state to receive this prestigious recognition. Winning schools must meet a variety of criteria and demonstrate that they are narrowing the achievement gap—assuring that all students are learning at high levels.
In describing the Title I Achieving Schools Award, State Superintendent of Education Tom Torlakson said, “the progress being made at these schools, which serve our neediest students, should serve as a beacon of hope for California. At a time of fiscal crisis and economic uncertainty, they continue to improve, building a brighter future for their students.”
For more information, visit Lincoln School’s website at http:// lincoln-pusd-ca.schoolloop.com.
District Superintendent Dr. David Verdugo stated that “we congratulate the students, staff and parents of Lincoln Elementary School for receiving this outstanding tribute, which is a reflection of the school’s commitment to excellence. Even more exciting is the fact that Lincoln has been recognized for the second time in two years. Great things are happening in Paramount’s schools!”
PHS JROTC Cadet
Headed to Annapolis
PHS produces ANOTHER Three Gates Millennium Scholarship Winners in 2012!
Paramount High School’s Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) cadet Brandon DeSiqueira, has been selected to attend The United States Naval Academy’s Summer Seminar at Annapolis, Maryland. The Summer Seminar is a highly competitive program that can be described as being a fastpaced, six-day experience for high achievers who have completed their junior year in high school. This program teaches students about life at the Naval Academy, where academics, athletics, and professional training play equally important roles in developing some of our nation’s leaders. In being one of 2,250 total students selected throughout the United States and abroad, Brandon will participate in the program from June 16-24th.
As a third year cadet in JROTC, Brandon describes himself as being a former timid and shy student who learned to adapt, change, and grow into being a successful student-leader within the JROTC program as well as the overall school community including our Associated Student Body (ASB). Upon receiving numerous awards and positive recognition, he prides himself on inspiring others within the community to pass on the mantle of success. While in Annapolis, MD this summer, he looks forward to learning new skills and techniques that he can bring back to improve the numerous student-led organizations that he is involved with here at PHS. He further explains that “this program gives me the opportunity to receive a taste of what the actual Naval Academy has to offer.” His future goals include attending The United States Naval Academy upon graduating from PHS in June, 2013 and then pursuing a career in the medical field where his desire is to assist people from historically under-supported communities.
Gregoire Francois, Assistant Principal - PHS
Paramount High School is proud to announce three students have won the prestigious Gates Millennium Scholarship (GMS) this year. This is the second time Paramount High School has had three Gates Millennium winners in a single year. Seniors, Jesus Villegas, Paola Ruiz and Maria JimenezAguilar bring the total number of Gates Millennium Scholarship winners to 12 coming from Paramount High School. Jesus Villegas is planning on going to Cal-State Long Beach, Paola Ruiz is considering offers from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Harvard University, and Maria Jimenez-Aguilar is planning to attend UC Davis in the fall of 2012.
These three PHS seniors are part of 1,000 students selected nationally each year for this highly competitive scholarship that requires strong academics along with school and community involvement. The student’s accomplishment is especially notable in context of the more than 24,000 students who applied in January making this year the largest and most competitive group of candidates in the program’s history. The application takes three people to complete; the student, a nominator (counselor), and a recommender (teacher). The Gates scholarship reduces financial barriers for African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian Pacific Islander American and Hispanic American students with high academic and leadership promise who have significant financial need.
The Gates scholarship also helps increase the representation of these target groups in the disciplines of computer science, educa-
tion, engineering, library science, mathematics, public health and the sciences, where these groups are severely underrepresented. The Gates Millennium Scholarship renews each year as long as students maintain satisfactory academic progress. Graduate school funding continues for Gates Millennium Scholars in the areas of computer science, education, engineering, library science, mathematics, public health or science.
The GMS program is so much more than the scholarship funds students will receive. Many GMS programs and activities have been designed for the recipients as resources, to assist them with continued development as a leader and to allow them to connect to the Gates Scholar community in a variety of
ways. One example among the wide range of resources the Gates program provides is the GMS Freshmen Leadership Conference, specifically designed to orient and prepare students for a smooth transition to college and to help them maximize the GMS experience. Other GMS Leadership Development Programs include Academic Empowerment services (ACE) to support academic success, graduate school planning for continued education and a mentoring program. There is also an online resource center and a social networking website that gives students exclusive access to other Gates Scholars, tips on developing good study habits and time management, a calendar WINNERS on Page E-4
Wirtz Elementary Students Take The Stage!
On Monday March 19, 2012 Wirtz Elementary School welcomed Missoula Children’s Theater (MCT) to their campus for an exciting week long residency! MCT is a non-profit theatrical company that tours the world with a mission to help develop life skills in children through participation in the performing arts.
With the financial support from the Parent Teacher Association (PTA), their friendly neighbors at Paramount Petroleum, Dustin Callahan from Marymount College, and Bellflower Travel Inn- they are extremely grateful that they had the opportunity to welcome MCT to their school to put on the first ever theatrical production.
Since the beginning of the school year Wirtz School Counselor, Ashley Howard has had her hopes set high on having MCT visit their school. Ms. Howard participated in four MCT productions as an elementary student,
Linda
Sonya
and feels that the process of auditioning, rehearsing and performing was some of the major highlights of her childhood. Howard expressed that the experiences that she had with MCT as a young student were absolutely magical, and truly ignited her appreciation and passion for the arts.
Wirtz students seemed to also embrace the opportunity that in this case, has only happened once in their lifetime. On Monday, students enjoyed a school-wide interactive assembly that two MCT Tour Actors enthusiastically presented. During the assembly students learned about folk-tales from a variety of cultures, and even had the opportunity to act out scenes from stories that were told.
After school on Monday afternoon, ninety four kindergarten through fifth grade students eagerly auditioned for the cast of Red Riding Hood, and fifty nine students were cast in the play! Rehearsals began promptly after the two
hour audition and continued each day after school. Students rehearsed for up to four and a half hours per night for the entire week in order to perfect their part before Saturday’s big show day.
Additional activities that helped to ‘set the stage’ for the week were the inviting Red Riding Hood decorations in the quad area, MCT music that set the tone as students entered the school, an inspiring documentary about MCT was offered in the library during lunch recess and on Friday before the showstudents had the opportunity to create a Red Riding Hood character using clay. On show day Mrs. Jolanda, Wirtz School Librarian created a raved about “walk of fame” using stars and individual portraits of each cast member that led the way to the stars of the show who performed in the Wirtz School Cafeteria.
On Saturday March 24th, Wirtz students shined bright on stage as they performed during two separate hour long shows. MCT provided a professional set and eclectic hand crafted consumes for each character. Students radiated with joy as they performed for an almost full house at both performances.
Wirtz Elementary plans to create a DVD of the on stage show and behind the scenes happenings of the week. This DVD will be available to Wirtz Staff and Families by June 15, 2012. Proceeds will be applied towards a second MCT production during the 2012/13 school year.
The week was made possible in part by our talented actors, generous sponsors, Missoula Children’s Theater and gracious parents and staff.
Cast
Presenter: Ashley Howard Red Riding Hood: Chanel Lee Big Bad Wolf: Steven Thomas Mother Hood/Grandma: Eliannet Barron Ranger Rooney: Zeion Palmer Sister Hood: Rajae Wilhite Brother Hood: Luis
Magaña Baby Hood: Sylea Bey Robin Hood: Edgar Camberos The Locksmith: Gaddiel Gil
The Woodsman: Michael Stemage The Boy Who Cries Wolf: Jesus Aguilera Little Loveable Wolf: Jorge Tumalan Girl Friends: Zerrya Bobo, Priscila Jimenez and Bethany Hernandez Three Little Pigs: Kimari Bay, Diana Flores and Samantha Sanchez
The Wolfgang: Eduardo Rodriguez, Vanessa Najera, Ulises Evangelista, Cecilia Salomón, Nixie Gutierrez, Erik Arellano, Noe Castillo, Emily Juarez, Kelsey McKoy and Jesús Manzo Forest Shadows: Irene Escalera, Emely Aguilar, Ashley Lopez, Valerie Salazar, Karina Aguilar, Leilani Magana, Evelyn Noris, Khadija Harkous, Genesis Esquivel, Nikky Munoz, and Julia Lopez Raccoons: America Contreras, Anthony Camberos, Nayeli Belmontes, Morelia Zavala, Jose Lopez, Angel Ramirez, Jubilee Gil, Joseph Esquivel, Tierra Pierce, Arlene Mendez, Jessica Hernandez, Marlene Lopez, Lillian Ortega, and Alessandra Estrada Directors: Erik Heuchert, Steven Thomas Assistant Directors: Rajae Wilhite, Alejandro Ayala, Kenya Mendez, and Anahi Solorzano, Accompanist: Dustin Callahan
Sponsors: Wirtz PTA, Paramount Petroleum, Dustin Callahan of Marymount College and Bellflower Travel Inn (Actor/Directors Host).
Staff Volunteers: Kelly Williams, Ashley Howard, Blanca Gill, Wirtz Parents (PTA), Diana Villa, Sonya Enser, Sylvia Sullivan, Wendy Mendez, Susie Campante, Marissa Orozco, Wirtz Student Council, Mike Aceves, Jolanda Dudgeon, Jennifer Kelly, May Eugenio, Gerardo Cervantes
“Together we can move a mountain, if each of us is willing to carry away a small stone...”
Ashley Howard-M.Ed Wirtz School
TAG Art Show Winners
During a recent Board of Education meeting, the first place and special recognition student award winners of the 13th Annual Traditional Artists Guild Show were congratulated and introduced: Juliana Torres, Kindergarten; Karla Resendiz, First grade; Chail Monge, Second grade; Naomi Chaidez, Third Grade; Shirlyza Tieng, Fourth grade; Trinity Ortega, Sixth grade; Guadalupe Yanez, Seventh grade; Molan Thomas, Eighth grade; Genesis Thomas, Ninth grade; Stacy Poy-Poy, Tenth grade; Clarissa Olive, Eleventh grade; Oscar Guerrero, Twelfth grade; Jacqueline Martinez, Judge’s AwardBest Use of Color; Ourapun Thong, Judge’s Award-Best Composition; Samuel Rodriguez, Superintendent’s Award; Natalie Medina,
TAG Chairman’s Award; Kalany Resendiz, Parks and Recreation Commission’s Award and Justin Mayer, Mayor’s Award. Also receiving a first place award was Our Lady of the Rosary 5th grade student Angelina Molinar (not in attendance).
The Board of Education members and Superintendent Verdugo recognized the students for their artistic excellence and presented them with a Certificate of Merit. Superintendent Verdugo thanked Mr. John Nowlin, Show Chairman from the Traditional Artists Guild, for his continued support of our students in the area of visual arts. Mr. Nowlin reported that over 1,150 pieces of student art were submitted for this year’s show.
PHS Spring Sports Show Mixed Results
As Paramount High’s spring sports season enters the home stretch, the general trend has been to be competitive throughout the program with opportunities for the CIF playoffs very much in question. Several programs could either finish high in league standings or miss the playoffs altogether, depending on the last two weeks of league play.
The one program with a great chance to win a league title is boys’ tennis. Coach Curtis Mu’s team has had its ups and downs this season, but as of this writing, was in the thick of the league championship race with two matches to play. The team has adjusted to the loss of team leadership and responded very well to pick up tight wins over Gahr and Lynwood in the third round. With everyone now pulling together, the team has its best chance to win a title.
In the thick of the running for playoff placement, Pirate baseball, boys’ volleyball, boys’ swimming, and Lady Pirate softball can all make or miss the playoffs with their play the next two weeks. Our baseball team has not been able to be consistent against league rivals, yet possesses the talent to secure a playoff berth if they can pull together. Single victories over Gahr and Downey and a tough loss to Lynwood have shown the inconsistency this season. Boys’ volleyball has played well in victories over Gahr, Lynwood, and Dominguez, and could secure a solid playoff spot or an at-large bid. Our Pirates have struggled against league powers Downey and Warren,
but have played hard and enthusiastically throughout the schedule. Paramount’s swim programs have been predictable this season, with the boys’ varsity right there in play for a league title while the girls’ team has struggled. Both league and CIF competition loom for our swimmers as they try to keep up with the success they have enjoyed the past few seasons. And our Lady Pirate softball team has also played well against Gahr, Lynwood, and Dominguez, but big second-round games against Downey and Warren will determine where our ladies fall in the playoff picture.
Pirate Track and Field will not realize team league titles for the first time in several years following dual-meet losses to Downey and Warren. But with Paramount hosting the league prelims and finals on May 1 and May 4, respectively, there a chance our Pirates can re-coup some of those losses.
As 2011-12 draws to a close, the athletic department looks ahead to the completion of the Pirate gym remodel and the new mini-gym completion some time this summer. When the 2012-13 school year opens in August, all of the construction projects that began in December 2007 will be completed but for the remodeling of the girls’ PE building. The coaching staff again thanks all those who are making these facilities possible for the future of Paramount athletics.
Superintendent’s Message:
California Day of the Teacher
The thirtieth annual “Day of the Teacher” will be commemorated in California on Wednesday, May 9, 2012.
Please join our Board of Education as we recognize and thank our teachers for their outstanding service and important work with our students and families.
Our Paramount Unified School District teachers rank among the best in the entire State and not only provide excellent academic instruction, they also strive to give valuable guidance, encouragement, and care to our students on a daily basis. Teachers are not only selfless givers, but also very often the mentors of our lives who have devoted and dedicated their life to their profession and students.
Please join me in expressing your gratitude for your child’s teacher. A message, a note, a card, a poem, a compliment expressing your appreciation is
truly a reward.
I believe we can all think back to that special teacher who made a profound difference in our lives.
Thank you for joining me when I say thank you to the teachers of Paramount Unified School District for making a positive difference in our lives.
David J. Verdugo, Ed.D. Superintendent
PARAMOUNT PARK MIDDLE SCHOOL
“We’re headed to college with our CST knowledge”
In preparation for this year’s STAR test, Paramount Park Middle School adopted the theme, “We’re headed to college with our CST knowledge.” The purpose of the theme was to help students make the connection between their academic effort and attending the college of their choice in the future. In order to help students make the connection counselors, coaches, and teachers conferenced with students to remind them of their performance from the previous year. Using that knowledge, students set new goals and wrote the goals on a college pennant which were placed in the windows of all homeroom classes. The student pennants will serve as a visible reminder for students to remain focused and try their best on the test.
To kick-off the testing week, a school pride STAR pep-rally will be held to remind students of how their personal goals help the school to make its SMART goal. All students and staff members will be adorned in green and yellow to show that through unity, we can accomplish anything! In keeping with the theme, staff and students will wear college-paraphernalia during the two weeks of testing. Those students that exhibit exemplary test taking skills will be awarded with a college themed prize. These prizes consist of water bottles, notebooks, t-shirts and popsicles.
With all of this knowledge, the students will develop a better understanding of the importance of setting goals and connecting the importance of test taking to their future success. Paramount Park Middle School students are headed to college!
Keppel Family Picnic
If you were to visit one of Paramount’s sixth through twelfth grade English Language Development (ELD) classrooms, you would see teachers and students engaged in one of the district’s new programs, Inside Language, Literacy, and Content and Edge. Both programs are specifically designed to help students advance in their English reading, writing, listening and speaking skills.
The new ELD programs provide students with various opportunities to learn and practice English. The programs include a wide range of vocabulary-building activities for English Learners, helping students to communicate in English more effectively in both written and oral forms. In addition, the use of visuals, language and comprehension strategies help to equip students with the skills they need to
Mark Kemp Athletic Director -
PHS
New Programs to Support English Learners
succeed in an academic environment.
Each program offers engaging literature selections that are of high interest to students at the middle and high school levels. The programs feature structured student practice, using routines that move striving readers toward reading independence and success. Effective comprehension instruction teaches students various ways to build meaning from text and become active readers.
Teachers and students alike are finding the ELD programs to be great tools to help meet the varying needs of English Learners and allow students to grow in language and literacy.
Debra Bolds Curriculum Specialist
Following a weekend of heavy rain and strong winds, Keppel boys and girls were greeted by a beautiful rainbow on the Monday morning of March 19. You can imagine the feeling of excitement and relief to know that the long awaited “In-N-Out Keppel Family Picnic” would not be hampered by the rain. Burgers and potato chips tasted especially mouth-watering when eaten under the sun and in the crispy air. For two hours, the infamous “In-N-Out” aroma hovered around the school. Most importantly, the children treasured the lunch-time companionship, warmth, and love shown by the family members who were able to join them. We want to thank the community for their support and in addition the district office employees who graced us with their presence. Most of all, lots of appreciation to the “In-NOut Foundation” for their generosity. Our Keppel family certainly looks forward to another memorable reunion in the near future!
Linda Go, Principal - Mark Keppel School
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society PENNIES FOR PATIENTS Spring at West Campus
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is the world’s largest voluntary health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research and providing education and patient services. The students of Collins School for three weeks were eager in supporting the organization by raising $1,905.84. The funds raised on behalf of LLS will go towards program service dollars on patient and community services, medical research, public health
and professional education.
Justin Ramos was one of the many Collins students to collect coins for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. However, Justin has a different background and history from the other students attending Collins School. When Justin turned in his coin box for Pennies for Patients, a handwritten letter by his mother was attached to his box. The letter stated “Hello, my name is Justin Ramos and I’m a cancer survivor. Justin was diagnosed with cancer in 2007. While attending Collins School, Justin wasn’t like the average student in class learning how to read, write, and apply different math concepts. Justin had frequent doctor appointments to receive treatments for chemotherapy. Currently, Justin has been cancer free for over a year and hasn’t had to take any medications for the past few months.
Every four minutes, another child or adult will be diagnosed with a blood cancer. However, with organizations such as The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) schools nationwide can contribute to finding treatments and cures of patients with cancer.
Wendy Hunt Counselor - Collins School
“Dancing Dynamos” Parent Night at Theodore Roosevelt School
Theodore Roosevelt School had the air of an episode of “Dancing With the Stars” on Tuesday, March 20, 2012!
Third grade students and their parents were invited to attend and participate in the “Dancing Dynamos” Parent Night. This was a culminating event after the students had enjoyed several weeks of dance workshops from the AMAN Dance Educator Program.
In February and March the students participated in five 45 minute workshops led by professional dancer Rosina Didyk. Ms. Didyk engaged the students in learning basic dance movements via rhythm exercises. The students also learned several cultural dances and the history behind the dances.
On the evening of March 20th, the students demonstrated what they had learned for their parents and guests. Everyone was
so proud of what they had accomplished in such a short period of time! After the student demonstrations, the parents and guests were invited to join the students in learning some new steps.
A wonderful evening was had by all who attended. As shared by parent Angelina Ramirez, “The dance performance was great! My daughter learned something new and different.” From parent Dominica Nnorom, “I saw the joy on my daughter’s face while dancing.”
On behalf of the parents and students of Theodore Roosevelt School, thank you to the Board of Education for their continued support of arts education for our students.
Susan Marilley. Principal Theodore Roosevelt School
A Look Inside...Music At
Alondra Middle School
The music program at Alondra Middle School continues to grow and thrive as it comes to the completion of its third year. Music appreciation is a part of the sixth grade elective rotation wheel, giving many of our youngest students an open door to the opportunities they have in music if they choose to continue with it in Choir, Band or even String Orchestra next year. As for the seventh and eighth grade students in the program, they have not only learned to play an instrument or sing with correct technique, they have learned to make music expressively and draw the audience in to what they have worked so hard to perform. Whether this means dancing to Michael Jackson’s Thriller as they sing, singing in different languages, or playing challenging music on their instruments, the audience is consistently impressed. This was proven at the Music Program’s most recent perfor-
With the year’s end within sight, the 9th grade students have many memories to look back on. Spring Semester was abuzz with activity at the West Campus, beginning with the annual Day of the Scholar. This event is one of the largest activities on campus, and includes nearly half of the freshmen class. As a reward for their hard work, discipline, and diligence, students receiving a 3.0 GPA or higher for first semester, and students with perfect attendance for first semester, were invited to an afternoon of food, fun, and entertainment. Large jumpers, slides, and games were provided for the nearly 600 students who qualified to attend the event. In addition, food and snacks were served, with a DJ providing music throughout the event. Raffle prizes were also given out. Perhaps, in students’ minds, the best part of the day was that students were excused from their 4th period classes, to enjoy the event and a long, well earned relaxing lunch.
Not ones to forget about those in need, the students of West Campus rallied together this semester to collect over $2000 in donations for Pennies for Patients, which benefits the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The Class of 2016 showed their heart and compassion with this activity, as well as their competitiveness. First period classes challenged each other to see which could raise the most money. It was a heated battle, with the stron-
gest competition coming from Mrs. Chaidez ‘s and Sergeant Brayboy’s classes, both of who raised well over $200 each. In the end, Mrs. Chaidez’s class took the lead, raising over $400 for this very worthy cause.
A new event this spring was Bully Free Friday, which occurred on March 16. As many know, bullying has become a hot topic among schools and the media. West Campus’ Bully Free Friday was a day for Pirate teachers, staff, and students to recognize the negative effects bullying can cause both on and off school grounds. The day was also to promote a “bully-free” school; a safe campus for the freshmen to learn and grow together, without fear or hate. Bully Free Friday was an all day event. Pirates wore white to promote neutrality and equality, first period teachers reviewed important information with students on the topic, and the day culminated with a lunch activity. The activity included face painting, an information booth, a raffle, and a place for students to sign a bully-free pledge, promising to help keep West Campus Bully Free. All in all, Spring Semester is an active one in which freshmen pirates are offered a variety of activities and events.
Christine Humble Activities Director
Paramount Unified School District Kindergarten Registration Begins!
It is time to register your child for Kindergarten! Children who are five (5) years old on or before November 1, 2012 are eligible to attend Kindergarten. Registration for the school year 2012-2013 begins May 1, 2012. To register your child the following documents are required:
o Proof of birth, such as birth certificate
o Current immunization records
o Proof of residency in the Paramount Unified School District
NOTE: Children born between November 2nd and December 2nd of the current school year may attend Transitional Kindergarten (TK).
mance in March. The students learned their music so quickly that each ensemble was ready to perform three pieces long before the scheduled End-of-the-Year Concert.
The groups played superbly, in such a way that members of the audience came to the director afterwards to express their amazement that groups who have been playing for so little time could possibly play that well. After a welldeserved Spring Break, each ensemble, including a new group of 6th graders, looks forward to the hard but fun work of improving their skill and expanding their knowledge, and the gratification that they experience after they get to show it off!
Jenna Krakower Teacher/Music Director Alondra Middle School
Further information about registration is available at your school or on the Paramount Unified website, www.paramount.k12.ca.us . The school site contact numbers are the following:
Collins 562/ 602-8008
Gaines 562/ 602-8012
Hollydale 562/ 602-8016
Jefferson 562/ 602-8024
Keppel 562/ 602-8028
Lincoln 562/ 602-8036
WINNERS from Page E-1
of GMS events and announcements of internships, fellowships and other scholarships, some unique to Gates Scholars.
The Gates Millennium Scholars Program was established in 1999 and was initially funded by a one billion dollar grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. To date this program has funded more than 15,000 Gates Millennium Scholars since its inception. Gates Scholars have enrolled in more than 1,500 colleges and universities.
Los Cerritos 562/ 602-8040
Mokler 562/ 602-8044
Roosevelt 562/ 602-8056
The program has obtained a graduation rate of 79.9% with over 7,000 graduates completing their degrees since the inception of the program. Jesus, Paola and Maria will join other Gates Scholars across America in developing a diversified education and join the future leaders of our country by successful completion of their bachelors, masters and doctoral degrees – all paid for through the Gates Millennium Scholarship. This scholarship opportunity is truly a lifechanging event for these three Paramount High School students.
PHS-West